WELCOME TO CORNERSTONE PRESCHOOL
Cornerstone offers hands-on, age-appropriate activities to enhance children's social, physical, intellectual, creative, and emotional development. We advocate for child-directed learning, fostering intrinsic motivation and self-esteem without fear of failure. Cornerstone Preschool is a non-profit preschool owned and sponsored by the Avon Lake Presbyterian Church. The Preschool serves both children of the church as well as those of the community. Cornerstone has conventional classes for two and a half, three, four and five year old children. Cornerstone is fully licensed by the State of Ohio and is Step Up To Quality accredited.
Meet Our Staff
Cornerstone’s main goal is to prepare children for kindergarten by creating and maintaining a positive self-image in each child through stress-free learning. We encourage the children to use and develop their language skills to help them with socialization, conflict resolution and problem solving. We are fortunate to have teachers that are passionate about early-childhood education, and bring our creative and loving environment to life each day!
Preschool Director
Bookkeeper and Tuition
Mindy Thomas
Lead Teacher, 2.5 Program
Meghan Smith
Lead & Assistant Teacher, 3's
Dawn Crannis
Lead Teacher, Progressive Pre-K
Joni Luchesi
Assistant Teacher, All Day Pre-K
Laura Pettys
Assitant Teacher, 2.5 Program
Kim Baroni
Lead Teacher, Half Day Pre-K
Jenny Berner
Assistant Teacher, Progressive Pre-K
Crystal Hampson
Lead Teacher, 3's
Elizabeth Emery
Assistant Teacher, Half Day Pre-K
Tina Folds
Lead Teacher, All Day Pre-K
Our Programs
A Place to Learn, Grow, and Belong
At Cornerstone Preschool, we believe the early years lay the foundation for a lifetime of learning. Our programs nurture the whole child through meaningful, age-appropriate experiences that encourage curiosity, build confidence, foster friendships, and celebrate each child's unique development.
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Guided by Creative Curriculum®, our play-based approach supports social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth through hands-on exploration, creative expression, and purposeful play. From early literacy, math, and science to problem-solving, collaboration, and outdoor discovery, every experience is an opportunity to learn and grow.
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We recognize that every child develops at their own pace. Our teachers create a welcoming, supportive environment where children feel valued, encouraged, and excited to discover what's next.​
2.5 Year Old Program
A gentle introduction to preschool in a warm, nurturing environment. Through play, exploration, and social interaction, our youngest learners build confidence, develop friendships, and discover the joy of learning.
Preschool Program
A place for growing independence, creativity, and connection! Children strengthen social and emotional skills while exploring early literacy, math, problem-solving, and self-expression through hands-on learning.
Pre-K Program
​Building strong foundations for kindergarten and beyond! Children develop independence, strengthen early academic skills, and grow in confidence through engaging activities that encourage critical thinking, collaboration, and discovery.
All Day & Progressive Pre-K
More time to learn, explore, and grow! Our All-Day Pre-K program offers extended opportunities for hands-on learning, creative expression, and kindergarten preparation. For children who would benefit from additional growth before kindergarten, our Progressive Pre-K option provides more advanced skill-building, independent learning, and collaborative projects to strengthen confidence and school readiness.
Lunch Bunch Program
The Lunch Bunch program gives children an opportunity to share a mealtime with their friends and learn important social skills. It also gives parents some flexibility in their schedules by allowing a later pick-up time (for morning students) or an earlier drop-off time (for afternoon students). Parents provide their child with a bag lunch and beverage on their Lunch Bunch day(s). It is offered Monday-Friday from 11:30-12:30. It can be added after a morning class or before an afternoon class. Children must be in the 3's class or above, and be fully independently potty-trained.
Schedule a tour!
If you are interested in enrolling your child at Cornerstone preschool, please create an account in our school database system, Brightwheel, by clicking the link below! Our director will be in contact with you shortly about setting up a tour, available programs, and the enrollment process.
We can't wait to meet you!
WE ARE ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE FOLLOWING CLASSES FOR THE 2026-2027 SCHOOL YEAR:
All Day Progressive PreK
PM Preschool Class
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Request a tour below to apply!
For Parents
Registration Process:
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December: Registration is open to our current Preschool children AND their siblings. You must complete the online registration.
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January: Registration will be open to the public on Thursday, January 7, 2027.
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February: All parents will be sent an email confirming placement and what to expect next.
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If placement is not available, parents will be notified, the registration payment will be returned, and/or your child will be offered the opportunity to be placed in another class or on the waiting list.
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May: you can expect an invoice for the first of nine tuition payments.
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School forms to be completed by August 1-prior to the start of school.
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During summer break, all families will receive updates and communication regarding the start of the school year through the Brightwheel app. Please be sure to download and have notifications TURNED ON!
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August: Teachers will mail welcome letters to the children in their class.
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September: Mandatory Parent Information Night will be held the Tuesday after Labor Day.
Please do not hesitate to email the preschool director if you have questions regarding the registration process at director@cornerstonepreschoolal.com!